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3 differences between Newcastle vs Arsenal in 2023 compared to 2022
By Adam Keys
Both Arsenal and Newcastle have had incredible Premier League campaigns this season, and the meeting on Sunday is going to be an intense battle between two very good teams.
Arsenal fans will have bitter memories from last year’s 2-0 defeat which ultimately resulted in the club missing out on Champions League qualification, but there are big differences for both sides this season.
3 differences between Newcastle vs Arsenal this year and last
1. Arsenal will be prepared for the atmosphere
The St James’ atmosphere was non-existent throughout Mike Ashley’s ownership of the club, with Newcastle’s home being a chasm of toxic negativity for over a decade.
That all changed last season when the Saudi takeover was completed. The place came alive again, and the famous Geordie atmosphere was reignited, with fans once again desperate to get their hands on tickets.
That atmosphere took the players and fans by surprise last season, and this year it has been even louder, but Arsenal players know what they are walking into, and have become much better at handling noisy grounds.
Xhaka on Newcastle v Arsenal last season:
— Chris Wheatley (@ChrisWheatley) May 2, 2023
"They destroyed us. They were much better and wanted it more.
"We have to go there and show them that we are ready. #NEWARS
"It will be a tough game but we have to go there and believe." pic.twitter.com/T4flCZsns3
When the sides met last season, Arsenal had just suffered a harrowing 3-0 defeat to Tottenham, and went to St James’ needing a win to keep their Champions League hopes alive.
This year, Arsenal have just comfortably beaten Chelsea 3-1 and confidence is coming back after a difficult period, so hopefully that confidence and experience helps the players deal with the intimidating environment the fans will create.
Continued on the next slide…